Fluoride Free New Zealand congratulates Rotorua councillors for abandoning plans to hold a referendum. This is despite intense efforts from fluoridation lobbyists with the DHB even offering to pay half or up to $50,000 for a referendum.

This is a big win for common sense, democracy and freedom. It allows residents to choose if they want fluoride or not, but does not allow them to fluoridate their neighbour.

This comes on the heels of the Deputy Director of the National Poisons Centre agreeing on Radio New Zealand this week that the jury is still out with regards to the safety of fluoridation. There are now 45 published studies linking fluoride to lowered IQ. A move to start fluoridation is sheer madness.

A big public turnout of 60 people at the Council meeting followed on from over 100 members of the public who heard the Dentists and Doctors event in Rotorua on theSaturday afternoon. It was clear that the public of Rotorua do not want fluoride chemicals added to the water supply.

Fluoride Free NZ will now turn their attention to the reticulated water supplies of Taupo and Turangi. Residents of Taupo and Turangi are being over exposed to fluoride chemicals and Fluoride Free NZ intends to begin a campaign to end fluoridation in the two townships immediately.

The next information event for Taupo will be held on Saturday 15 November 2014. Local councillors, local MPs, local Iwi, doctors and dentists and the general public will all be invited to this important event. Details will be provided on www.fluoridefree.org.nz